There are moments in life when you encounter people who share the same passions and vision and dreams as you…and these rare occasions often present us opportunities for exciting new possibilities.
Taste! West Virginia originally launched in 2014 as a publication from Wintervine Publishing and its founder Joel Bennett. The goal was to produce a high quality, quarterly print magazine focused on the Mountain State’s expanding culinary scene. After a pause in print publications during the early stages of the pandemic, a new print issue of Taste West Virginia was planned for an August, 2021 relaunch of the magazine.
The team at Taste West Virginia met with Chef Paul Smith last summer with the idea of writing a story on him and his restaurants for the new issue. Over the course of a few hours, it became obvious that there were much bigger opportunities for everyone — and ESPECIALLY for West Virginia.
“I grew up here in Charleston, and then traveled to the corners of the country honing my culinary chops,” said Paul. “But in my heart this was always ‘home’ and where I wanted to return and make a difference.”
Over the course of a few additional meetings and discussions, a new vision for Taste West Virginia began to take place — one where Chef Paul would lead a new direction of storytelling and experiences that will take us places we had never envisioned.
“I want to spotlight the amazing people and places that many people may never have the chance to encounter when they travel through the state,” says Paul. “We have so many opportunities to tell West Virginia’s amazing story through food and hospitality.”
These aren’t just empty words, either. Chef Paul volunteers his time and expertise in his work with the WV Department of Tourism and WV Economic Development Office — as well as his often seen publicizing restaurants around the state…that aren’t his.
“I truly believe a rising tide carries all boats,” says Paul. “If I can help get the word out about a hidden gem in the Mountain State, that helps ALL of us.”
Needless to say, it was obvious that Taste West Virginia and Chef Paul Smith, who was named West Virginia’s Best Chef in the Best of West Virginia 2021 poll by WV Living Magaine, crossed paths for a reason.
If you haven’t had the chance to see any of our recent content, take a peek at our newly launched website with a somewhat different storytelling style shining a spotlight on some of the people and businesses shaping West Virginia hospitality.
In the coming weeks, we will also launch an online shop where you will be able to buy some of the West Virginia food and home goods that you love most.
We hope that you join Taste West Virginia and Chef Paul Smith on this rising tide of positive things for the Mountain State’s food, hospitality, and tourism industries.